Gulte News
American youth, aged between 18 and 29 years, are showing more interest in exercising their franchise in the upcoming polls scheduled on November 3.
According to a national poll conducted by the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School, young Americans feel that the issues that would impact their day-to-day life are on the ballot, like healthcare, mental health, racial and social justice. The poll also revealed that a majority of the electorate in this category are supporting Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Over 63% young voters have confirmed that they would take part in the polling process next month. This is much better than the 43% of young voters who cast their votes in 2016 polls.
The unprecedented interest in this election and the significant increase in early and mail-in ballots portend historic turnout, said Mark Gearan ’78, Director, Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School. “As this generation becomes the largest section in the electorate, their notable civic participation is a very good sign for the future.”
The November 3 polls are likely to witness a higher turnout of youth, according to the survey. It also suggested higher turnout of youth than has been observed in this age group in several decades. The poll also indicated former vice president Joe Biden’s favourability has increased 56% while the percentage who view him unfavourably remains at 41%.
Among the young voters, Democratic candidate Biden is ahead of Republican candidate Donald Trump with their support to him in 24 areas.
